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What is just an average girl about?

Thursday, April 27, 2017

Review: Fitbit Charge HR - Purple


Place purchased:  Primenow Amazon
Price: $79.99

I was in a bit of a hurry to get this item, my cousin was in town visiting from Michigan, and we were doing a lot of walking.  I've been on a low carb diet since October 2016, so I was wanting to up my exercise, as my weight loss lately has been slow.  She had another brand of lifestyle watch, and recommended I get one.  After looking on Primenow (because I wanted one pronto), I went with this one due to the lower price point.  For the beginner, it seemed perfect to me.  There are other options of Fitbits, but they are higher priced due to the functions or style.  This was ordered at 10pm and waiting on my doorstep the next morning.  Have to love Amazon Prime Now!

Pros:  It syncs with my smartphone.  It tracks a few different things, such as my heart rate, steps per day, calories burned, distance, flights of stairs.  It is also supposedly to automatically detect other types of physical exercise.  When you've reached your set goal(s) for the day, it vibrates.  It has really helped to keep me motived to reach my goals.

Cons:  I went bike riding once and it did not auto detect right away. I'm not sure how many miles I actually rode.  I also bought a size larger than I needed, so be sure to read the size description and measure your wrist.  I have a few holes left until I can no longer use it, so I'm hoping it will still fit as I lose weight.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  It has helped me to be conscious of my daily exercise.  I've walked more and make a bigger effort to get exercise than I used to.  There are also challenges you can set up for yourself, and online communities to bond with other Fitbit users and challenge each other.

Monday, April 17, 2017

Review: Marc Jacobs Daisy Sorbet Women's 1.7-ounce Eau de Toilette Spray


Place purchased:  Overstock.com
Price: $53.99 for the 1.7oz size 

Fragrance is something very personal to me.  I love wearing a nice perfume every day, even if I'm the only one who smells it.  I've had the obsession of designer fragrances since I received my first bottle of "Giorgio" at age 16.  What an extravagance that was!  Up until that time, I had only received Love's Baby Soft and other drugstore type fragrances.

Fast forward 30 years later.  My parents created a monster. I love designer fragrances, and it seems I am always on the lookout for the next best thing.  I have quite a few in my collection, and 3 in the MJ Daisy line,  but I wanted to write about this one first, as it's my favorite.

I received a sample bottle from my Scentbird.com subscription.  I think it's the only time I've used up the whole supply they provide.  In fear of running out, I scoured the internet looking for more.  I found a good price at Overstock, and ordered it.  I literally have to keep myself from wearing it every day.  I have so many others I love (but not as much as this one), and I don't want to think I wasted my money on the others, so I make myself wear them.  But I know in the back of my mind, I wish I had this one on!  Silly, I know 😆  

It's described as: Hints of jasmine, passion fruit, pear and pink grapefruit highlight its fruity and floral scent, creating an intensely sweet fragrance that is guaranteed to turn heads. Let this fresh eau de toilette spray make a statement about your style and character with its femininity and softness.

Floral fragrances are my fave.  So if you love floral too, this one is a must try!

Pros:  Light, feminine, 1 or 2 sprays last all day.

Cons:  N/A

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  This one is my fave, but hey, tomorrow that can all change, I'm fickle like that!





Review: GlobeIn Monthly Subscription Box


Place purchased: Globein.com
Price: $10.00/month ($10.90 with tax)

Advertised as: Artisan made products from around the world, helping to fight poverty.

I joined this club because it's rather inexpensive and I like the mission behind it.  They use artisans from around the world and send us their handmade items.

This month I received a pair of earring from craftswomen/men located in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Eastern China.  The brand is Marquet, which employs over 100 jewelry craftsman, offers both full time and part time opportunities, and provide the opportunity to work at home.  Marquet also supports the Binh Minh collective of 20 families in Vietnam, who weave beautiful scarves from locally-raised silk.  Marquet is dedicated to importing handmade accessories, gifts, and decor from Thailand and Vietnam. 

I wasn't so sure at first that I liked these earrings.  Then I happened to notice I was wearing a shirt that matched the colors perfectly.  They are cute, I thought to myself.  I will give them a try!

This is my second month with this subscription service.  Last month I received a small handmade bowl, artistically decorated.  I am unsure if I will continue with this club or not.  It depends on if I find value and am able to use what I receive.  I won't keep a subscription just to accumulate clutter.

Pros:  Cheap.  Helps support artistians in other countries.  Global impact, and warm fuzzy feeling from knowing I am helping others.

Cons:  You don't know what you will get.  You may or may not like it.  Maybe the items I don't like, I can give as gifts?

Final Result:  Undecided.  I will see how things go in a few months to decide if I want to cancel, or keep receiving this membership. 

Friday, April 14, 2017

Review: MAC Prep + Prime Skin Refined Zone Treatment


Place Purchased:  MAC Store, Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.
Price: $23.00

Advertised as: "An oil-free emulsion that helps conceal visible pores while controlling oil and shine."

I have been battling with my oily skin for years.  This has lead me to try a plethora of products.  I've tried an Avon version of oil control - total waste of money.  It did not have what it takes to battle my oily skin!  I've also tried Clinique, and a few from Sephora (can't remember the brands off hand).  The point is, I've tried a lot!  The MAC tech recommended this for my oily areas.  For me, it's my T zone, plus my chin and cheeks.  I guess pretty much all over if I think about it now!  Since purchasing this product, I've used it a few times and have been very happy with the results.

Pros:  Controls even my oily skin for most, if not all, of the time my make up is on.  So let's say at least 8 hrs, give or take.  Just a dab will do ya.

Cons: It's a small bottle, so use sparingly.  As oily as my skin is, I am lucky I don't wear make up everyday, or I would have to order this by the case!

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  Keeping this one on my must have list.  I won't try any others unless this no longer works for me.

Review: MAC 170 SYNTHETIC ROUNDED SLANT BRUSH



Place Purchased:  Bloomingdales at Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.
Price: $35.00

I have around 4-5 MAC brushes now, but I felt I had to add this one to my collection because it gives your foundation an air brushed look.  I have 2 other foundation brushes by MAC, and this one is my favorite.  It's advertised as: "A brush that applies, buffs out and blends thick creams and liquids." It does a splendid job.  It's thick, with short slanted bristles.

Pros:  Gives your face foundation an air brushed look.  Good coverage.

Cons:  $35.00 is a bit steep for a brush, so it's not something everyone will spring for.  However, if you just get to choose 1 brush for foundation, I would choose this one.  I wish I had bought this one first, I would not have purchased the other 2 I have.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  It's my favorite foundation brush.



Review: Scentbird Monthly Fragrance Subscription


Place Purchased: Scentbird.com
Price: $14.95/month

Oh my, it seems like the list of things I love is never ending.  I LOVE LOVE LOVE fragrances!  And like most things in my life, I want the expensive kind, that start out at around $60.00 a bottle.

I came across and ad for Scentbird - my pulse started racing as I visited the site.  Literally hundreds of fragrances - what?!!?!?  For $14.95 a month for a 30 days supply - double what?!!!?!!?

I rushed to sign up and early waited for my first shipment.  There we so many fragrances to choose from!  You browse through their site and put the scents you'd like to receive in your que.  You can switch your que around, skip a month (or several) and they even have fragrances for men.  They offer a variety of options including gift sets.  You can also purchase full size from them if you find one you can't live without.

The site advertises: “Date” perfumes before “marrying” them.
This is great for people like me, as I'm picky about my fragrances.  I've received a few I don't care that much for, so I plan on giving them away to someone who likes the scent more than I do.

You receive 1 reusable case with your first order.  They must have messed up, because somehow I've received 4!  I also bought the stand you see to hold them from wish.com.

Pros:  Buy a perfume for an inexpensive price, better than the free samples given out at dept. stores, it's at least 30 days if you wear it every day.  Price includes shipping.

Cons:  You might get stuck with a fragrance you don't like, but it's worth the risk.  You can always give it away.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  As you can see from my collection, I've been a member for awhile now, and will continue to be as new fragrances are continuously released.



Review: Too Faced "Better Than Sex" Mascara & Waterproof Mascara


Place Purchased: Full size - eBay.com / Small size through beauty subscription box
Price: $21.50 for full size

I struggle with my puny lashes.  I've tried all types of different mascaras, all claiming to be the best thing ever.  I've tried the cheap kind by Maybelline, all the way up to Chanel, and everything in between.

I received the sample size of Too Faced "Better Than Sex" mascara in one of my beauty boxes.  I don't know how long it sat in my arsenal of products before I gave it a try.  Probably close to a year!
I immediately fell in love with it, and ordered the full size from eBay (it was the best price I could find).  I didn't want to risk running out!  To be honest, I don't wear make up very often, so the sample size probably would have been sufficient for quite awhile. I didn't get the water proof kind because typically the non waterproof version provides better lashes with more volume.  I compared the two descriptions, and found this to be true for this brand as well.    

Upon using both the waterproof and the non waterproof, I have to say I prefer the waterproof. For my lashes, it seems to give me better results.  Either version is amazing though!  My lashes are long and full.  This is one mascara no one should be without.

Pros: Long, beautiful lashes.  Available in waterproof and non waterproof.

Cons:  If you can't find a deal and have to buy from a beauty store, full price is $23.00

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  This will remain on my must have list.  I just read another review stating that Rimmel "Scandalous Eyes" is a similar mascara, and priced at only $7.00.  I will have to pick it up next time I'm at the store, and give it a try.

Review: MAC Charged Water Skin Hydrating Mist


Place Purchased:  MAC Store, Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.
Price: $25.00

I had a big important business meeting and wanted to look my best.  I had "ok" make up, but I wanted great make up for this important event.  I chose MAC due to it's reputation in the industry, and I've dabbled with a few items in the past.  That day, I walked out with $280.00 worth of products! Needless to say, I've got a lot of great MAC items to review.  Well maybe "a lot" is a bit of an over statement, because at their prices, you aren't going home with a grocery bag full of stuff.

I wasn't sure why I needed this charged water, but I bought it anyway.  I'm glad I did.  The MAC tech advised me to use it before applying anything to my skin, then once again when I was done with the final powder.  

I have oily skin, so the "before" isn't really necessary to hydrate my skin.  I found that spraying the charged water again after the finishing powder is applied, gives my skin a natural look, instead of the dry powdery look I normally obtain.  Some might even say "dewy".  

Pros:  Perfect for all skin types.  Gives a more natural look to your finished make up, especially if you have powdery or dry skin.

Cons:  It's a bit pricey, so use sparingly.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  This one will remain on my must have list.



Review: Louis Vuitton Keyholders

               


Place Purchased:  louisvuitton.com and Louis Vuitton Michigan Ave, Chicago ILL.
Price: Monogram around $175, Vernis was around $375

I've had both of my LV key holders for awhile, so you'll have to excuse me for not remembering the prices of them.  The vernis was pretty pricey, but I was on the Magnificent Mile in Chicago, and just HAD to buy something!  At LV prices, this was a "bargain" of the selection they have.  It was either this, or a $2000.00 bag.  

At first, I thought "why do I need TWO key holders?", so I just used the 6 style one for a few years now.  Then, I bought another car - and voila! both key holders are in use. 

When I first saw LV key holders, I couldn't wrap my head around why I needed one.  And I didn't buy one, even though I had collected LV for quite a few years. Then one day, I read online why I had to have one.  It protects the inside of our precious bags from damage from our keys. Enough said.  I ordered one post haste, and never looked back.

I like the 6 holder size because it fits the larger fobs.  Although it's very easy to have the fobs hanging outside of the holder, and just keys inside.  I've also got a ring or two inside that are unused, so that's the perfect spot for all of those shopping cards everyone likes to give out.  Both of my key holders are also heat stamped with my initial.  This is a free service from LV.  Just remember though, heat stamping makes items harder to sell if you ever decide you don't love it anymore.

Pros:  Does not harm the inside of your bag.  Looks snazzy and unique.  There is a large variety of patterns, and colors for both sizes.  It is something that is used every day.  They have both held up pretty well over time.  I just now noticed that my vernis has a tiny chip spot on the front panel.  However there are no scratches to the vernis, despite I don't baby it.

Cons:  Larger fobs may not fit inside.  

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  This is a must have for any LV lover.



Thursday, April 13, 2017

Review: CAVIAR Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture Milk Leave-In Conditioner


Place Purchased: Amazon.com
Price: $10.57

Due to coloring (and most recently, bleaching) I tend to have dry hair.  I like to use a leave in conditioner, but most that I used made my hair feel heavy and limp.  There have been several products that made it feel greasy.  I received this Caviar Replenishing Moisture Milk in one of my many beauty boxes.  It took me awhile to get around to using it, but I'm glad I did.

The cheapest price I found was at Amazon.  Other beauty sites like Sephora, charge around $30.00.  It pays to shop around for this product.

Pros:  Lightweight, no greasy feeling, does not weigh hair down.  Smells GREAT!  Everything I could ask for from a leave in conditioner.

Cons:  Be careful where you buy it, or you might over pay.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  I will be buying this product again.

Review: HERMÈS Béarn Wallet - rose Jaipur



Place Purchased: Hermes, Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.
Price: $2650.00

Well, since I purchased the Evelyne III 29, I couldn't go around with a mis-matched wallet, now could I?  Not only that, I didn't want a black one, because it would get lost inside of my bag.  So, the SA showed me this beautiful rose color, and it was love.  It has 5 card slots and a few other long slots for paper.  The slot behind the coin section is spacious, it could easily hold a book of checks.  

This wallet is butter soft, just like the bag I purchased.  Just smelling Hermes is a rush!  Oh my goodness, it's as good (some might say better) than new car smell!  The leather smell lingered for days, and I still get a nice whiff every now and then.  It fits perfect inside my Evelyne and no embarrassment about my wallet not matching my bag (ok, this might be a figment of my imagination that anyone even notices).  

Pros:  Lots of space.  Coin section, several long sections for paper, and 5 slots.  Convenient outer closure with a nice "H" on it.   Butter soft and flexible.

Cons:  Too large for smaller bags.  I also could not afford one in every color.  Definitely a con.  

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  This wallet is my 3rd Hermes purchase.  This brand is a keeper, and I will be back for more!

Review: HERMÈS Evelyne III 29 - Black


Place Purchased:  Hermes, Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.
Price: $3375.00

My first indulgence into uber luxury, and certainly not my last!  Once you go orange, how can you ever go back?  I did not know what to expect when I stepped into Hermes.  I had only ever seen this brand online, and had no experience with the product in person.  I thought the Evelyne looked a bit rigid, but I was very wrong.  It feels like a glove, is incredibly soft and supple, I could hardly believe it.  The sales associate says the leather is "organic, and molds to your body." I loved the cross body style, and have since used it every day.  It's so versatile, and I don't have to worry about trim, and babying it like I do some of my other bags.  I am beyond pleased with this purchase, and will be back to visit the Hermes store again!

Pros:  Adjustable cross body strap, outside pocket, back snap, holds a ton for such a small size.  The one I bought is the smallest, it also comes in 33.  They come out with new colors 2 times a year, I could see myself with a whole collection of just this style!

Cons:  I could't buy them all!  Yes, it's pricey, but it's Hermes.  It's not a dressy bag, so it's not something you'd wear for a fancy night out on the town.  

Final Result:  LOVE IT!!  As I said, this is my first Hermes purchase, but definitely not my last.  I've put this brand on my radar, and will be adding more to my collection as time goes on.

Review: Louis Vuitton Multicolore Courtney MM


Place Purchased: Facebook group (retired)

I am a huge handbag lover, and unfortunately for my wallet, I love the expensive designer kind.  I've been hooked since the first time I carried a purse, which was around 16 or so, when I needed a place for my keys.  Over the years, my tastes have gotten more and more expensive.  My first splurge was a $99.00 Dooney & Bourke Mini Bucket.  I thought that was the most outrageous price EVER!  I couldn't believe I had paid that much for a bag.  I was so proud of that thing...and it was so CUTE!  I wish I still had it, it would be a vintage bag now!  

I've got a very large handbag collection.  I'll be reviewing quite a few (if not all) of them on this blog.

First up is the Louis Vuitton Multicolore Blanc Courtney MM.  This bag is retired, and no longer available new.  I've always loved the multicolore line.  While a speedy was my first interest, I saw this bag for sale in a FB group a few years back, and went for it.  I love bags that have a strap and handles.  That's my fave kind.  This one, thanks for the Christian Louboutin type spikes, can also be used as a weapon!  Clunk someone with this bag, and you can do some real damage!

Pros:  Well, it's Louis Vuitton! Enough said?  Maybe.  Louis Vuitton is very exclusive, and they don't put their items on sale.  Therefore, bags retain their value.  This bag is perfect for spring and summer, has a lovely plush scarlet red lining and is quite an attention getter.

Cons:  It's a bit on the heavy side.  The strap is not long enough to go cross body.  You can easily purchase a longer strap directly from LV, if you wish to wear it that way.  Or on eBay, etc.

Final Result:  LOVE IT! but it is for sale,  due to my ever changing taste.  $1200.00 if you are interested.


Review: Glossybox Monthly Subscription Box


Place Purchased: glossybox.com
Price: Varies by plan, I get the monthly plan for $21.00/month

I've tried a few different subscription services for beauty products over the past year.  I've tried ipsy, Birchbox and Glamour Box.  I cancelled all of them, but kept Glossybox.  Why?  While ipsy and Birchbox is very affordable (only $10 delivered), I prefer full samples and more items.  For this reason, I am willing to pay a bit more.  This is not the only subscription box I get, and I will post more as they come in this month.

This month I got some really nice things.  Way past the price of the box, and things I know I will use. In April I received:
  1. Trial size tube of Vasanti Cosmetics - Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
  2. Two (2) full size Colourpop Cosmetics Ultra Matte Lip gloss
  3. Full size Doucce Maxlash Volumizer Mascara
  4. 2 sample size Beauty Shampoo and Conditioner
  5. Sample size Jafra Cosmetics International Paris Et Moi Eau De Parfum
  6. Sample size "For Feet's Sake" Intense Repair Spa Foot Butter
Each month is like receiving a present!  Beautifully boxed and packaged.  The price includes shipping, so the deal can't be beat.  

Pros:  Nice variety of items, several full size each month.  You get to try before you buy full size of items you like.  It's the perfect gift to yourself, or to give as a gift (I've sent my assistant a box before).

Cons:  You don't know what you are going to get.  I can't remember if I filled out a beauty profile when I first subscribed, but I probably did.  You might not receive colors that you like, or will use, in terms of makeup.  I have a large bin I keep and give the leftovers as gifts, or donate them to a friend. There's always something you can do with leftover or unused items.  I've even considered donating the items to a woman's shelter.  Some people sell them on eBay.  

Final Result: LOVE IT!  Definitely recommend this beauty box.  You get way more than you pay for, and the monthly surprise of items is never a disappointment.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

Review: Meetup.com (Also an app)


Place Purchased:  N/A 
Price: $0

Being a transplant from the Midwest, I find it hard to meet new people, mostly because my job is virtual, which means I work from home.  Having a home based office has it's perks, but it is not helpful in meeting new people.  In desperation, I happened to come across the website meetup.com, they also offer an app for smartphones.  

In my area (San Diego, CA.) there is a TON of things to do via the app.  So far I've been whale watching, and went on a 10 mile bike and brunch event.  I meet the nicest people, and don't feel weird for not having a friend with me.  I feel totally comfortable doing things alone, and hopefully making new friends along the way.  There is a plethora of offerings, from pub and art crawls, to biking, hiking, yoga, movies, brunches, evenings out, adult coloring, and more.  You name it, there's a meet up for it.  It is truly the best thing since sliced bread, and a wonderful way to meet new people in your community.

Pros:  Something for everyone.  Even introverts! If you can't find something you like then you must not enjoy much!  It gives you the opportunity to do things that your friends or family might not enjoy, but you don't want to miss out on.  It also gives you the opportunity to diversify your circle, meeting people that you otherwise might not come into contact with.

Cons:  There aren't many to be truthful.  Some of the events cost money, but there are plenty of free ones too.  You would need transportation to get there if you aren't close to the meet up.

Final Result:  LOVE IT! The only thing stopping you, is YOU if you don't use this app!

Review: Amazon Prime Now

Place purchased:  Free with Amazon Prime Membership
Price: $0 but tip is encouraged for the driver

I am hooked on Amazon Prime Membership!  Imagine my added excitement when I moved to an area that offered Prime Now - FREE 2 hr delivery for Prime members!  I could hardly contain my excitement.  Not to mention, I got to rub it in my Midwestern friends faces, who are not privy to such a wonderful service.  That's what they get for living in the Midwest, among other things (like snow, ice, sleet, the list goes on....).  But anyway....

As soon as I found out about this wonderful service, I had to give it a try.  It delivers as promised, and I received my items within the time frame they say they will arrive.  If you are not home, or not awake yet (for those early morning deliveries), it sits waiting for your arrival.  All charged to your card, even the tip!  Fabulous!

Pros:  If you don't feel like going out, they offer a decent variety of items that can be delivered. They even offer local grocery stores, most of which require a min. purchase at that store (around $30.00)
This would be ideal for people who can't drive, don't want to go out, or are disabled.

Cons:  Choices are rather limited, not near the variety that regular prime offers.  

Final Result:  LOVE IT! If what I want is not offered in the Prime Now feature, I simply order the 2 day regular delivery instead.  It's not something I use frequently, but I know it's there if I need it.


What is just an average girl about?

I buy stuff.  A LOT of stuff!  To the point where sometimes I think I have a shopping problem.

Through all of my stuff buying, I've bought good stuff, and I've bought bad stuff.  I often read reviews of things I want to buy, and find consumer reviews very helpful.  Even on the little things.

I often forget what I've bought, or how I liked it, so I thought having a blog would be helpful.  Hey, it might even help others!

So if you are just an average girl, like me, please follow me and I will keep posting lots of goodies!

Review: Berrisom - My Lip Tint Pack (Set of 6)



Place Purchased:  Amazon.com
Price:  $14ish

I am not one to normally wear lipstick, due to the fact it lasts about 5 min. because I eat or drink something and off it comes.  It's really frustrating, because I happen to have a lot of lipstick, thanks to the beauty boxes I've gotten over the past year or so.  

So I see a Facebook ad for this supposedly great new product, I read a few reviews and decided to give it a go.  You apply it, let is set for up to 20 min, then peel it off to reveal the color underneath. It is supposedly like a lip tattoo, lasting up to 12 hrs.  

I put some on this morning, and let it set for about 15 min or so.

Pros:  It did give my lips some semi-permanent color.  I used the next to the last color, which I thought would be too dark for me.  Once the top layer is peeled off, the color underneath is lighter.  It did not last 12 hrs, but I am also not sure I let it set long enough.  I will try again tomorrow.

Cons:  It's hard to not have your lips touch while it's waiting to dry!  I started to slobber.
Other reviewers commented on how hard it is to get off if you make a mistake applying.  I found that a q-tip took it right off, if you removed it immediately.

Final Result:  Undecided at this time.  I will post again later once I've had the chance to give it more time.